Description:
Plaque on the house on the site of William Cookworthy’s residence at 58 Notte Street, Plymouth. Where he dined with Joseph Banks, Captain James Cook, Dr Solander before the Endeavour voyage.
History:
William Cookworthy (1705-1780), a Quaker, pharmacist and innovator, he pioneered porcelain manufacture. John Smeaton lodged at his house when he was building the 3rd Eddystone Lighthouse.
1892 William Cookworthy’s house had recently been demolished.
1991, the existing plaque was replaced with two limestone tablets.
1998, the building was being used as a Mexican restaurant.
Inscription:
(Plaque below the window)
JAMES COOK
DISCOVERER AND NAVIGATOR 1728-1779
CAPTAIN ROYAL NAVY AND LEADER OF THREE GREAT VOYAGES OF DISCOVERY WHICH CHARTERED UNKNOWN LAND
IN THE SOUTH SEAS AND PACIFIC ON EACH VOYAGE HE SET OUT FROM PLYMOUTH. HE DINED IN A HOUSE ON
THIS SITE WITH COOKWORTHY BEFORE EMBARKING ON HISFIRST VOYAGE IN 1768.
(Roundel above the window)
Depicting a relief image of Captain Cook.
On the window on the opposite side of the building is a similar plaque and relief of William Cookworthy
Latitude/Longitude:
50°22’35”N, 4°8’38”W
References:
Cook’s Log, page 693, vol. 12, no. 4, (1989).
Cook’s Log, page 1231, vol. 19, no. 1, (1996).
Cook’s Log, page 1556, vol. 21, no. 4, (1998). (with photos)
Western Daily Press, Monday 26th September 1892, p.7.
Website: www.quakersintheworld.org/quakers-in-action/261
Image gallery (click to enlarge)